The colour red can add warmth, depth and vibrancy to a painting. Used wisely, a small splash of red can have a powerful impact on a painting – think a red rose in a dark room or a girl in a red beret on a rainy street.
Red is also a popular shade for underpainting a canvas or paper before painting. This is where a thin coat of paint is applied to the surface of the canvas/paper, creating a more uniform surface. Underpainting in red is particularly useful for creating warm hues in a landscape painting.
How to make red
Red is a primary colour, which means it can't be created by mixing other colours. However, there are many easy ways to make different shades of red. From light raspberry to deep crimson, mixing pure red with other colours can create a range of beautiful shades.
How to make orange-red
This orange-red shade is also known as vermillion.
To make this colour, simply add a small dot of yellow to your red paint. Mix together with a palette knife or brush. Add more yellow to lighten the shade if needed.
How to make brownish red
This brown-red shade is also known as maroon, autumn or chestnut red.
To make this colour, simply add a small dot of green to your red paint. Mix together with a palette knife or brush.
How to make violet-red
This violet-red shade is also known as magenta.
To make this colour, simply add a small dot of blue to your red paint. Mix together with a palette knife or brush. Add more blue to deepen the shade if needed.
How to make light red
To make light-red, simply add a small dot of white to your red paint. Take care not to add too much white as this will make it pink. Mix together with a palette knife or brush.
How to make dark red
To make dark-red, simply add a small dot of black to your red paint. Mix together with a palette knife or brush.
How to make red paint for your next artwork
Red is a strong colour. It can be used alone to draw the eye, or combined with other colours to create a variety of warm tones. Have fun experimenting with red for your next painting project.
How to make brown
Enjoy making red and want to try another colour? Learn how to make brown with our fun and easy guide!
